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The Cost of a Replacement Car Key It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It's important to keep in mind that a replacement key for your car may not cost as much as you think. The cost of a replacement for a car key depends on several factors, including the type of key you require and your location. Keys made of traditional design are the least expensive, while smart keys are the most costly. Cost of parts Depending on the type of key you require the price will depend on the type of key you require, the cost can vary. Keys that are standard, but without transponder chips can be copied for between $50 to $110. The price increases when you require keys equipped with a transponder chip or a vehicle with a push-to-start feature that requires an extra fob to activate the car. These types of keys are costly to duplicate or replace and are harder for car thieves to break into. The year, make and model of your vehicle will also impact the price. Newer vehicles may come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by an auto locksmith or dealer. This means that the replacement key needs to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle and could cost as much as $200. The cost of replacement keys is also affected by: Auto locksmiths are the cheapest alternative, but they don't have all the equipment required to deal with more advanced key fobs and vehicles. If you don't have the right tools, it could be difficult to duplicate the basic key from a hardware shop. You can also contact roadside assistance for a new key. However, they will take your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take a few days. If key replacement for car have a newer key fob, the best way to cut costs is to purchase all-in-one laser-cut keys and program them yourself. But this is becoming more difficult since key fobs are often equipped with security features to guard against theft. Many companies offer software to design keys. However, they are only an option for customers who have service contracts. In attempting to circumvent these restrictions could cause problems, as most locksmiths will not open vehicles that are forced or altered with. Insurance companies will be alerted if you use wire hangers to unlock your car. Cost of Labor The cost of replacing the car key will vary on the type you need. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. To program and make more sophisticated keys, you'll need special machines. This can significantly increase the cost of replacing the car key. You'll also require a new key fob if the vehicle has one to unlock and start it. It could cost up to $200, based on the model and make of your vehicle. Additionally, many newer vehicles also use a transponder chip in the key that needs to be replaced and programmed to function properly. This is an additional expense that can be difficult to estimate until the key is actually lost and must be replaced. To create a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine is required. These are expensive and are not accessible to people who do not have an auto repair shop. Furthermore, the key's housing is also required to be replaced which could add to the total cost of the replacement key for your car. Depending on the car key type You may also have to purchase additional replacement parts. For example, some key fobs have features such as panic and remote lock/unlock buttons which can increase the total cost. Additionally, some key fobs require batteries that can be quite pricey to replace. It is best to make a spare car key before you lose the original one. This will ease the anxiety that comes with losing keys and ensure that you always have a functional backup. If you do need an additional key, seek out a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your car. It will cost less than buying a new key from a dealer and will save you the fees that are high with this method. If you own a key that requires programming, it's essential to keep a record of your immobilizer code, or the key number in case you have to get it reprogrammed in the future. This information is typically located on your title or registration and is available to a locksmith or auto dealer for a fee. Cost of Equipment Modern vehicles have key fobs which can lock, unlock and even start the vehicle by pressing a button. These devices can be very convenient, however they can be costly to replace when they are lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without having to replace the device. There are a few aspects to take into consideration when it comes to the cost of a replacement car key. The year, make and model of the vehicle There are a variety of keys for cars, from simple laser cut keys to switchblade keys. They are extremely difficult to duplicate since they are so distinct. This is especially true for modern car keys, that have transponders which need to be programmed to the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, but will cost more than a regular key copy. Another factor that can affect the cost of replacing a car key is the type of car. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However the most sophisticated cars require a special key that can cost as much as $500 to replace. The type of key and the location of the vehicle may also affect the cost of a replacement key. If you lose your keys in a remote area, you could be charged a higher price for towing your car to the nearest dealer to have a new one programmed. This cost is reduced by keeping an extra key in a safe location such as at home or at work. It is important to remember that keys that are new will probably require programming by the dealer. This is because the majority of major dealers do not offer mobile key programming and can only do this in their workshop. It could be costly when you lose your sole set of keys. It's advisable to keep a spare set with you. Cost of replacement keys Depending on the make and model of your car depending on the make and model of your car, you may have to purchase replacement keys from a dealer or an automotive locksmith. Before you do this, make sure to check the type of your car's keys and if it comes with a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies can increase the cost of your car key replacement. A classic car that doesn't have a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at the local hardware store for less than $25. It's best to have a spare in the event that you lose your original. Modern cars have keys that emit an electronic signal to unlock and start the car. It's a hassle to replace if you lose it, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get an alternative one and then pair it with your car. The cost of a typical replacement key fob can be anywhere from $50 to $150. In some instances, you may be able to change a keyfob in the dealership if you have proof of ownership, like a registration or title. However, the dealer could charge an additional fee for the service to cover the cost of travel and time spent on an unreachable location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online, or directly from the manufacturer. This is a cheaper option however it's more risky because the quality of the keys can't be assured. You should never attempt to gain entry into your car using wire hangers or force, because this could trigger alarms and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to open the door of your car. This could also result in damage to the lock, which would cause higher costs for repairs or replacements. If you can locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to get them cloned at an auto repair shop instead of the dealership. This can help you save money, especially if you have a spare key at home.